Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Caper Sauce is a zesty, tangy, and savory sauce that adds a burst of brightness to seafood, chicken, or vegetables. With the bold flavors of lemon juice and briny capers balanced by smooth butter and garlic, this versatile sauce elevates any dish with minimal effort. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant meals alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butterolive oilgarlic (minced)fresh lemon juicelemon zestcaperschicken or vegetable brothfresh parsley (optional)saltblack pepper

directions

Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Stir in the capers and cook for another minute.

Pour in the lemon juice and broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add lemon zest and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce and thicken.

Optional: Stir in freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Serve immediately over your favorite protein or vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 3/4 cup of sauce, enough for 2-4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 7 minutesTotal time: 12 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of white wine for extra depth and acidity.

Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use shallots instead of garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.

Thicken with a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry if you prefer a richer texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.Do not freeze, as the butter emulsion may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or just use olive oil.

What kind of capers should I use?

Non-pareil capers are preferred for their small size and delicate texture.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth used is gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.

What does lemon caper sauce go well with?

It pairs especially well with fish like salmon or cod, grilled chicken, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Does this sauce thicken as it cools?

Slightly, due to the butter content, but it remains pourable.

How do I balance the tartness?

Adjust the amount of lemon juice or add a touch of honey for subtle sweetness.

Can I add cream?

Yes, adding a splash of heavy cream creates a creamy version of the sauce.

Is this sauce low-carb?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just scale all ingredients evenly.

Conclusion

Lemon Caper Sauce is a simple yet elegant way to enhance your meals with a burst of citrusy flavor and briny complexity. Whether drizzled over fish, chicken, or veggies, it brings a gourmet touch to everyday cooking. Quick to make and packed with flavor, it’s a must-have in your sauce repertoire.